Diesel theft raids

SEVEN suspected diesel thieves were arrested following a string of police raids across St Helens last Friday (February 10).

Officers from Merseyside Police and the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (Titan) executed warrants at nine addresses throughout the morning.

Seven men were subsequently arrested on suspicion of theft of diesel and a quantity of diesel was seized.

Six of the men, aged 20, 26, 27, 32, 39 and 46, hail from St Helens. The other suspect, aged 26, hails from Huyton.

All seven were taken to police stations for questioning by detectives before being released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Chf Supt Rob Carden, the St Helens area commander, said: “The raids were the culmination of an investigation into the theft of diesel and cars across the north west. We would like to reassure residents that we have listened and acted upon their concerns and will continue to take action against those prepared to threaten the safety of our communities.

“We remain committed to working with our partners to ensure that these individuals are put behind bars and to making sure that St Helens is a safe place to live, work and visit.”

Anyone with information about the theft of diesel is asked to call Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.